The Caribbean Development Bank in keeping pace with 21st Century has brought in not only new staff but younger members to keep apace with changes especially in the Social Media and Technology landscapes…

Loan approvals totaled United States dollars (USD)139 million (mn), up 34% from USD104 mn in 2012. Similarly, total disbursements amounted to USD186 mn in 2013, some 60% above disbursements of USD116 mn in 2012.

The Bank’s interventions in human resource development in its borrowing member countries (BMCs) continued to promote the development of the skills and competencies required to foster growth. This emphasis is consistent with CDB’s commitment to expanding the pool of Caribbean citizens capable of leading productive lives in an internationally competitive environment.

The investments in education and training in 2013 were, therefore, channeled in two complementary pathways for economic growth and competitiveness. First, CDB continued to support expanding the quality of basic education, so that graduates can successfully transition to higher education and training opportunities or acquire skills for entry level employment.

An amount of USD24.5 mn was approved for both Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of Haiti to enhance instructional effectiveness and expand opportunities for children to complete primary and secondary education. Second, USD22.8 mn was approved for post-secondary and tertiary education in Anguilla and the University of the West Indies’ Open Campus programme.